Best Public Infrastructure Grants in New Mexico

Local public bodies and small, non-entitlement communities in New Mexico can seek funding for public infrastructure projects through the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration’s Community Development Block Grant program; awards up to US $500,000 support infrastructure needs like water, sanitation, waste management, and other capital projects listed in the Infrastructure Capital Improvements Plan.

Local and state government entities in New Mexico seeking to acquire, develop, or expand outdoor recreation areas and related public infrastructure can apply for the Land & Water Conservation Fund, with awards up to US $500,000. Administered by the New Mexico Energy Minerals and Natural Resources Department, this matching reimbursement program supports parks, trails, wetlands, and resource protection projects.

New Mexico tribal governments seeking funding for community infrastructure projects like water, wastewater, roads, or power lines can apply to this competitive Tribal Infrastructure Fund. Grants from State of New Mexico IAD help New Mexico public infrastructure projects in federally recognized Nations, Pueblos, and Tribes develop robust proposals reviewed by a Tribal Infrastructure Board.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with $100,000+ budgets offering workforce preparation, youth development, or community accessibility programs in New Mexico can apply for funding from RBC Foundation USA. The foundation supports job-readiness skills, inclusive prosperity, and environmentally sustainable community spaces in U.S. communities where RBC Wealth Management has an active business presence.

The FY26 Bollards Competitive Grant Program aims to enhance pedestrian safety by funding bollard installation projects. This initiative targets areas frequented by large crowds to prevent injuries and potential acts of terrorism. Eligible applicants include State Departments of Transportation and local government entities, with a 100% federal funding share for projects. This program is vital for improving public safety in urban environments.

The Fiscal Year 2026 National Dam Safety Program focuses on rehabilitating high hazard potential dams that do not meet state safety standards. Funded by FEMA, this initiative aims to protect lives and property by providing federal funds to eligible states, which then pass these funds to non-Federal governmental or nonprofit organizations. Rehabilitation involves repairing, replacing, reconstructing, or removing dams to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Public agencies and transportation entities developing or expanding marine highway transportation, including projects benefiting New Mexico, can apply for up to US $12,000,000 to support public infrastructure and mass transit–related improvements. With a mission to strengthen marine transportation alternatives, the US Department of Transportation Maritime Administration funds projects that reduce landside congestion and promote shipper use of marine highway routes.

Public agencies and partners seeking to deploy advanced transportation technologies for safety, mobility, and congestion management in New Mexico and across the U.S. can apply for the ATTAIN Competitive Grant Program, offering up to US $12,000,000. DOT Federal Highway Administration supports projects that enhance public infrastructure, intermodal connectivity, and infrastructure return on investment.

Researchers, public agencies, and policy organizations in New Mexico working on transportation infrastructure and policy can seek up to US $200,000 for research, data, and implementation projects. With a mission to improve U.S. infrastructure systems, Arnold Ventures provides support for studies on capital investment reform, project delivery costs, permitting, governance, and related transportation policy issues.

Grants from Funders' Network for Smart Growth and Livable Communities help New Mexico public infrastructure partnerships fund the human infrastructure behind equitable, community-centered projects. U.S. community collaborations led by a 501(c)(3) can request US $45,000 - US $120,000 to support workforce development, job creation, and engagement around publicly funded water and other infrastructure initiatives, with at least a 50% match.

Very small, financially distressed rural governments, nonprofits, and tribes in New Mexico can use this program to fund predevelopment planning for water and waste disposal infrastructure projects. Focused on rural public infrastructure, USDA: Rural Development invites eligible applicants to seek support for feasibility studies, preliminary design, engineering analysis, and technical assistance for future construction projects.

Researchers and research institutions in the U.S. can apply for Arnold Ventures funding to conduct rigorous quasi-experimental evaluations of social programs and policies, including those affecting public infrastructure. Grants support causal research in areas such as higher education, workforce training, infrastructure, reproductive health, and public finance, helping inform policymakers and improve public systems in New Mexico and beyond.

Industrial and energy-sector organizations in New Mexico developing thermal or electric energy storage solutions for industrial facilities can access funding through the U.S. Department of Energy. The Industrial Energy Storage Systems Prize offers up to US $700,000 across three competitive phases to design, prototype, and validate cost-effective storage technologies that improve efficiency and support public energy infrastructure.

Federally recognized Indian Tribes in New Mexico can seek funding for public infrastructure projects focused on unsafe or aging bridges. Focused on bridge improvement, the Federal Highway Administration invites applications year-round for planning, design, engineering, construction, rehabilitation, seismic retrofits, and safety or anti-icing countermeasures for eligible Tribal Transportation Program bridges in poor condition.

New Mexico public infrastructure and transportation agencies, state and local governments, Tribal governments, counties, and port authorities can access funding through the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) program for major surface transportation projects. This US Department of Transportation grant supports multi-modal, multi-jurisdictional projects with significant local or regional impact, with awards up to US $25,000,000.

Nonprofits, government entities, tribal organizations, and other eligible entities working on traffic safety and public infrastructure in New Mexico can seek funding to implement innovative, evidence-based countermeasures that reduce road fatalities. Grants from the National Safety Council’s Road to Zero Coalition support Safe System approaches, life‑saving technologies, and projects with measurable, scalable results across the U.S.

Public infrastructure and community-focused 501(c)(3) organizations or government entities in New Mexico can seek support for health, sustainability, education, and community development projects. SC Johnson Giving supports U.S.-based charities and public agencies, with emphasis on communities near its operations, including initiatives that improve public infrastructure, safety, and access to essential services.

Local governments and community-based nonprofits in small to mid-sized New Mexico cities can receive up to US $25,000 for temporary street safety pilot projects that address dangerous or divisive arterial roads. Smart Growth America’s Community Connectors program offers a yearlong cohort with training, support, and in-person convening to advance public infrastructure and reconnect neighborhoods.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

The Ittleson Foundation Environmental Program Grants support innovative projects that enhance environmental activism through education and grassroots efforts. In 2025, grants will focus on initiatives that strengthen environmental movements and engage new constituencies, particularly in environmental equity. The Foundation has provided resources since 1932 to improve public policy and community welfare, alternating its grantmaking focus annually between mental health and environmental initiatives.

The Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants support various community initiatives across North America, emphasizing education, health services, and cultural affairs. Launched post-Hurricane Katrina, the foundation aids local nonprofits, enhancing community development, public safety, and veteran support. The grants cater to organizations that address the needs of children, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, ensuring a broad impact in areas where Penn National Gaming operates. This commitment reflects the foundation's dedication to uplifting communities and fostering resilience.

The Entergy Charitable Foundation Grant focuses on supporting initiatives that foster thriving communities through education, poverty solutions, and environmental programs. The foundation prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) organizations and similar entities. Key areas include education development, innovative poverty solutions, and environmental restoration efforts, such as coastal wetland preservation. Organizations are encouraged to apply at least three months before funding is needed, ensuring timely support for impactful community projects.

The Fund for a Just Society Grant, offered by the Unitarian Universalist Association, supports nonprofit organizations that focus on social and economic justice through community organizing. This grant prioritizes innovative projects that seek systemic change and empower disenfranchised communities. Eligible organizations must operate with an annual budget under $500,000 and demonstrate a clear campaign for change. This funding aims to foster a more just society by addressing root causes and enhancing visibility for Unitarian Universalist principles.

The Emergent Fund Grant, established in 2016, supports BIPOC-led social justice movements through rapid response funding. It addresses urgent community needs by providing low-barrier grants to organizations facing crises such as family separation and systemic oppression. The fund prioritizes initiatives that foster Black liberation, multiracial solidarity, and empower communities to build transformative power. By investing in innovative strategies, the Emergent Fund aims to challenge oppressive structures and advance social justice, ensuring that impacted communities are at the forefront of their own advocacy.

The When Georgia Smiled Grant, established by the Robin McGraw Revelation and Dr. Phil Foundation, focuses on aiding victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. The foundation prioritizes programs that provide shelter, education, and mental health services to ensure safe and fulfilling lives for affected individuals. Additionally, it supports initiatives for children and disaster relief, fostering community resilience and family reunification efforts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations operating in the U.S. with a commitment to inclusivity.

The Change Happens Foundation Grant focuses on supporting charitable initiatives aligned with environmental science, education, and human services. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the foundation prioritizes funding for organizations holding 501(c)(3) status, while advocating for innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. Grants aim to foster systemic change, empower underrepresented communities, and bridge gaps in access to nutrition and healthcare. The foundation operates nationally and internationally, seeking to create significant impact through strategic investments.